Texas Veterans urge Lawmakers to legalize Medical Marijuana

Posted by Sagar Satapathy on March 02, 2017.

Texas military veterans on Wednesday gathered at the Capitol and urged the lawmakers and Gov. Greg Abbott to allow marijuana for medical use, saying the drug would help them an alternative and safer way to treat service sustained injuries such as chronic pain, traumatic brain injuries, post traumatic stress disorder, and other related health conditions.

In a press conference, the veterans appealed to pass Senate Bill 269, filed by Sen. José Menéndez , a San Antonio Democrat, that would allow physicians to prescribe medical marijuana to registered cardholders in the state.

The veterans talked about how medical marijuana has helped their PTSD and chronic pain.

Army veteran Amanda Berard said the difference between cannabis and prescription medications “was like night and day.” Cannabis lessened her anxiety, allowed her to interact with people, and eat for the first time in four days. She said she believes it could do the same for other veterans, if only they weren’t threatened by the possibility of facing criminal penalties.

Kate Cochran Morgan, a veteran Navy FMF hospital corpsman said. “Many of prescribed pharmaceutical drugs cause side effects for which another pill is prescribed. Cannabis can help treat conditions like PTSD and chronic pain, and it has a better safety profile than aspirin.”

The veterans also delivered a letter, which was written by retired Army Maj. David Bass along with the signatures of more than 1400 veterans, asking for a private meeting with the governor to discuss veterans need for medical marijuana.

A recent poll of Texans shows 83-percent of Texans support legalizing marijuana, including medical marijuana. However, the Governor’s office says that Gov. Greg Abbott stands by his 2015 statement, saying that he would not allow the bill to become law.